Apprenticeships are a great way for young people to enter the working world, but don’t just take our word for it. Hear first-hand from 17-year-old Marcus, who made the jump from apprentice to full-time employment.

Marcus, who lives in Southall, became an apprentice fresh out of school at 16. He had always liked the idea of an apprenticeship. He said: “I learn better by doing things rather than just listening to someone talk about them, so hands-on learning suits me. An apprenticeship also allowed me to continue my educational journey without racking up huge debts.”

Marcus joined the council as a project monitoring apprentice in the council’s adult learning team. He completed his apprenticeship with flying colours, gaining a NVQ Level 3 in Business Administration and moving into full-time employment within a year.

Finding confidence

Marcus’s experience as an apprentice was – in his words – ‘amazing’.

“It was a bit daunting going straight into the working world from high school at 16,” he said. “I was a little nervous about what the workplace would be like, how I would fit in, and whether I would be able to manage everything.

“As an apprentice, I supported residents with their training and upskilling needs. Speaking to residents, colleagues, and partners really helped boost my confidence. I also became friends with my colleagues – one of the reasons I chose to stay in my team.”

Marcus has now moved into a new job as a curriculum support officer in the adult learning team. He said: “My new role is going well. My favourite part of the job is helping people find work. I support residents, help them upskill, and eventually get them into a job.”

Any words of wisdom?

Now that Marcus has completed his apprenticeship, we asked him what advice he would give to others that may be considering this route.

“College, sixth form, and university really is not for everyone,” said Marcus. “I know it wasn’t for me. I would really recommend that everyone considers an apprenticeship, as well as the ‘standard’ route. For me, the best part is you earn while you learn.”

You can read stories from other apprentices on the Around Ealing website.